Self-retracting lanyard with fall protection harness tracker

ABSTRACT

A self-retracting lanyard including a main body and a retractable line. The retractable line is coupled to the main body so as to be extendible and retractable relative to the main body and to be restricted from extending relative to the main body in response to a user of the self-retracting lanyard falling. The self-retracting lanyard further includes a manual control operable by the user to initiate controlled descent of the retractable line relative to the main body. The manual control may be operable by the user to deliver a fluid (e.g. compressed gas) from a fluid supply disposed in a housing of the manual control to an actuator of the main body to initiate controlled descent. Solar panel(s) may be disposed on the main body. When the retractable line is retracted, the housing may dock with and be charged by a solar powered charger disposed on the main body.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 16/261,151, filed Jan. 29, 2019, which is acontinuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/817,759,filed Nov. 20, 2017, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 15/415,651, filed Jan. 25, 2017, now U.S. Pat. No.9,852,598, issued Dec. 26, 2017, all of which are incorporated byreference herein in their entireties.

STATEMENT RE: FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH/DEVELOPMENT

Not Applicable

BACKGROUND 1. Technical Field

The present disclosure relates generally to a self-retracting lanyard,and more specifically to a self-retracting lanyard system with emergencyresponse communication functionality to aid in the rescue of a userafter a fall.

2. Description of the Related Art

Fall protection devices, such as self-retracting lanyards, are wellknown and are commonly used in work environments where an individual maybe susceptible from falling from an elevated location. One end of theself-retracting lanyard is typically connected to a harness worn by anindividual, while the other end of the self-retracting lanyard isconnected to an overhead support structure, such as a rail or beam.

A conventional self-retracting lanyard includes a main body and aretractable line coupled to the main body, with the retractable linehaving an exposed portion extending out of the main body. The main bodyand retractable line may be configured to allow the length of theexposed portion to increase or decrease during use of theself-retracting lanyard. In this regard, when the individual connectedto the self-retracting lanyard moves about the elevated location, e.g.,walking on the roof of a building, the length of the retractable linemay continually increase or decrease as the individual moves relative tothe main body. A spring biased spool may be located in the main body toallow for such selective lengthening and shortening of the exposedportion of the retractable line. In this regard, the spool may apply aforce on the retractable line to keep the retractable line generallytaut, while generally not inhibiting the individual's movement, e.g.,walking, at the elevated location.

In the event the individual inadvertently falls from the elevatedlocation, the self-retracting lanyard may break the fall to preventserious injury to the individual. In particular, the self-retractinglanyard may include a braking device operatively coupled to theretractable line, with the braking device being actuatable in responseto the individual's fall to restrict further extension of theretractable line from the main body, which in turn, stops the fall ofthe individual. The actuation of the braking device may be triggered viathe individual's inertia during the fall.

Although the self-retracting lanyard may provide protection againstsevere injury in the event of an inadvertent fall, there remains adesire to prevent such inadvertent fall altogether. Along these lines,the individual may suffer minor physical and/or mental injuries as aresult of such fall. For instance, the individual may lose confidencewhen operating at elevated locations, which may impact the ability ofthe individual to perform his job. Furthermore, the environment in whichthe individual is working may be associated with zones or regions thatare particularly more prone to injury, such as a location associatedwith a dangerously hot exhaust. It may be desirable to provide a warningto an individual as the individual approaches such dangerous zone.

Accordingly, there is a need in the art for a device, usable with aself-retracting lanyard which provides a warning to an individualapproaching a potentially dangerous location. Various aspects of thepresent disclosure address this particular need, as will be discussed inmore detail below.

Immediately following a fall, the user of a conventional self-retractinglanyard is helplessly suspended from the retractable line and harness.He must rely on another person to rescue him before his harness reducesblood circulation in his legs causing unconsciousness and possibledeath. This usually takes place within 15 to 20 minutes after theinitial fall. So serious is the risk of injury that suspension traumastraps, such as the Suspension Trauma Safety Strap by DBI-SALA® areavailable to alleviate pressure and improve circulation of the userwhile suspended. The concern is especially serious when the user istasked with working alone or the equipment required to rescue him isunavailable.

In light of the urgency with which a user of a self-retracting lanyardmust be rescued, various tools are available in the industry to makerescue quicker and easier. One such rescue tool is a controlled descentfeature on a self-retracting lanyard such as Ultra-Lok™ RSQ™ Dual-ModeSelf-Retracting Lanyard by DBI-SALA®, which features an RSQ™ EngagementKnob on the main body for selecting between Fall Arrest and Descentoperating modes of the self-retracting lanyard. The RSQ™ Engagement Knobcan be operated by hand or using a specially designed extension polewith a fork style attachment, depending on whether the rescuer is abovethe suspended user near the main body of the self-retracting lanyard oron the ground below the suspended user. However, in circumstances wherethe main body of the self-retracting lanyard is inaccessible and theextension pole is not long enough or misplaced, there is no way tooperate the RSQ™ Engagement Knob.

Also available are rescue tools that are separate from theself-retracting lanyard, such as harness-based controlled descentdevices operated by a ripcord. However, such separate devices greatlyincrease the per-worker cost of fall safety. Harness-based devices, forexample, must replace conventional harnesses. Due to their fabric-basedconstruction and constant contact with the human body and surroundingwork areas, harnesses degrade quickly and require frequent replacement.For this reason, conventional harnesses are generally considered“consumables” and have a low price point. A harness-based or othercontrolled descent device separate from the self-retracting lanyardrepresents an additional high-price piece of equipment that must bepurchased for each worker.

Accordingly, there is a need in the art for a self-retracting lanyardthat allows for rescue of a suspended user without the drawbacksassociated with known devices. Various aspects of the present disclosureaddress this particular need, as will be discussed in more detail below.

BRIEF SUMMARY

In accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure, there isprovided a method and apparatus adapted for providing an alert to anindividual attached to a self-retracting lanyard when the individual isapproaching an unsafe position. In particular, various aspects of thepresent disclosure relate to measuring an angle of the self-retractinglanyard, relative to a vertical axis, and generating an alert signalwhen the angle exceeds a preset magnitude.

According to one embodiment, there is provided an alarm device adaptedfor use with a self-retracting lanyard having a main body and aretractable line coupled to the main body. The alarm device includes ahousing adapted to be engageable with the retractable line. The housingdefines a detection axis, with the housing being adapted to allow atleast a portion of the retractable line to be parallel to the detectionaxis when the housing is engaged with the retractable line. Aninclinometer is coupled to the housing and is adapted to detect amagnitude of an angle between the detection axis and a vertical axis,and generate an electrical signal when the magnitude exceeds a presetthreshold. An alarm element is in communication with the inclinometer toreceive the electrical signal generated by the inclinometer. The alarmelement is adapted to generate an alert signal in response to receipt ofthe electrical signal.

The housing may be a clam-shell housing including two bodies pivotallycoupled to each other. The housing may be adapted to becircumferentially engageable with the retractable line. The housing mayinclude a body and a central channel about which the housing body islocated, the housing being adapted to allow the retractable line toreside within the central channel when the housing is engaged with theretractable line. The housing may also be configured to allow at least aportion of the retractable line to extend along detection axis when thehousing is engaged with the retractable line.

The preset threshold may be between twenty degrees and forty degrees.The preset threshold may be thirty degrees.

A resilient bushing may be coupled to the housing and disposed about thedetection axis.

The alarm element may be adapted to generate a visual signal. The alarmelement may include a light strip extending over an outer surface of thehousing. The light strip may substantially circumnavigate the detectionaxis. The alarm element may be adapted to generate an audible signal.

A method of providing an alert to a user coupled to a self-retractinglanyard. The method includes: detecting a magnitude of an angle betweena retractable line of the self-retracting lanyard and a vertical axisusing an inclinometer, the inclinometer being located within a housingcoupled to the retractable line; and generating an alert signal using analert element when the magnitude exceeds a preset threshold.

The generating step may include generating an alert signal when themagnitude is above twenty degrees. The generating step may includegenerating an alert signal when the magnitude is equal to thirtydegrees.

The method may further comprise the step of imparting an engagementforce on the retractable line. The imparting step may include impartinga circumferential engagement force on the retractable line.

In accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, there areprovided apparatuses and methods for initiating controlled descentfunctionality of a self-retracting lanyard while an individual attachedto the self-retracting lanyard is suspended after a fall. In particular,various aspects of the present disclosure relate to providing a manualcontrol operable by the user to initiate a controlled descent mode ofthe self-retracting lanyard without the assistance of another person.

According to one or more embodiments, there is provided aself-retracting lanyard including a main body and a retractable line.The retractable line is coupled to the main body so as to be extendibleand retractable relative to the main body and to be restricted fromextending relative to the main body in response to a user of theself-retracting lanyard falling. The self-retracting lanyard furtherincludes a manual control operable by the user to initiate controlleddescent of the retractable line relative to the main body.

The self-retracting lanyard may include a housing adapted to beengageable with the retractable line. The manual control may be disposedon the housing. The manual control may include a lever, switch, button,or motion sensor on the housing. The main body may include an actuatorarranged to actuate a controlled descent switch that initiates thecontrolled descent.

The manual control may be operable by the user to generate an electricsignal on a signal path extending from the housing to the main body. Theactuator may be configured to actuate the controlled descent switch inresponse to the electric signal. The signal path may include a wire inthe retractable line.

The manual control may be operable by the user to generate a pneumaticor hydraulic signal on a signal path extending from the housing to themain body. The actuator may be configured to actuate the controlleddescent switch in response to the pneumatic or hydraulic signal. Thesignal path may include an air pilot hose connected to a valve of acompressed air source of the main body.

The self-retracting lanyard may include a controlled descent actuationline coupled to the main body. The manual control may be disposed on thecontrolled descent actuation line. The main body may include a camcoupled to the controlled descent actuation line and arranged to engagewith a controlled descent switch that initiates the controlled descent.The manual control may be operable by the user to move the controlleddescent actuation line so as to cause the cam to engage with thecontrolled descent switch. The cam may be coupled to the controlleddescent actuation line via a spool on which the controlled descentactuation line winds as the retractable line is retracted. The manualcontrol may include a handle with which the user can pull the controlleddescent actuation line to initiate the controlled descent.

The self-retracting lanyard may include a non-transitory program storagemedium on which are stored instructions executable by a processor orprogrammable circuit to perform operations including receiving acontrolled descent initiation command and instructing a wirelesstransmitter to transmit a controlled descent initiation signal inresponse to receipt of the controlled descent initiation command. Themanual control may be disposed on a mobile device including thenon-transitory program storage medium, the processor or programmablecircuit, and the wireless transmitter. The main body may include anactuator arranged to actuate a controlled descent switch that initiatesthe controlled descent, the actuator including a wireless receiver. Themanual control may be operable by the user to generate the controlleddescent initiation command. The actuator may be configured to actuatethe controlled descent switch in response to receipt of the controlleddescent initiation signal by the wireless receiver. The manual controlmay include a touch screen, button, switch, motion sensor, or camera ofthe mobile device. The self-retracting lanyard may include a dock forholding the mobile device, the dock adapted to be engageable with theretractable line.

A method according to one or more embodiments includes providing aself-retracting lanyard including a main body and a retractable linecoupled to the main body so as to be extendible and retractable relativeto the main body and to be restricted from extending relative to themain body in response to a user of the self-retracting lanyard falling.The method further includes attaching the retractable line to a user ofthe self-retracting lanyard and initiating a controlled descent of theretractable line relative to the main body in response to operation bythe user of a manual control of the self-retracting lanyard.

According to one or more embodiments, there is provided a non-transitoryprogram storage medium on which are stored instructions executable by aprocessor or programmable circuit to perform operations includingreceiving a controlled descent initiation command in response tooperation by a user of a manual control associated with aself-retracting lanyard including a main body and a retractable linecoupled to the main body, and instructing a wireless transmitter totransmit a controlled descent initiation signal in response to receiptof the controlled descent initiation command, the controlled descentinitiation signal initiating a controlled descent of the retractableline relative to the main body. The non-transitory program storagemedium may be included in a mobile device that further includes theprocessor or programmable circuit and the wireless transmitter.

The mobile device may include the manual control, wherein the manualcontrol includes a touch screen, button, switch, motion sensor, orcamera of the mobile device.

The mobile device may be included in an apparatus that further includesa peripheral device connectible to the mobile device and including themanual control, wherein the manual control includes a lever, switch,button, or motion sensor.

In accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, there areprovided apparatuses and methods for communicating with emergencyresponse services or personnel in the event that a worker falls whilewearing a self-retracting lanyard. In particular, various aspects of thepresent disclosure relate to providing a harness-based tracker thatinitiates a wireless communication in response to a fall.

According to one or more embodiments, there is provided aself-retracting lanyard system including a self-retracting lanyard, aharness, and an electronic device. The self-retracting lanyard mayinclude a main body and a retractable line coupled to the main body soas to be extendible and retractable relative to the main body and to berestricted from extending relative to the main body in response to auser of the self-retracting lanyard falling. The harness may beconnected to the retractable line and may be wearable by the user of theself-retracting lanyard. The electronic device may be disposable on theharness and may include an accelerometer, a processor or programmablecircuit, and a non-transitory program storage medium on which are storedinstructions executable by the processor or programmable circuit toperform operations including receiving a measurement from theaccelerometer, comparing the measurement to a threshold, detecting thatthe user of the self-retracting lanyard has fallen based on a result ofthe comparing, and instructing a wireless transmitter to transmit awireless signal in response to the detection that the user has fallen.

The electronic device may further include the wireless transmitter. Theelectronic device may instruct the wireless transmitter via ashort-range data link to an external device that includes the wirelesstransmitter. The short-range data link may be a short-range wirelessconnection. The external device may be a smart phone paired with theelectronic device over the short-range wireless connection. Theinstructing may include instructing the wireless transmitter to transmitthe wireless signal to one or more contacts on a list of contacts storedin the smart phone.

The self-retracting lanyard system may further include a pocket sized toaccommodate the electronic device. The pocket may be formed integrallywith the harness. The pocket may include a fastener for removably fixingthe pocket to the harness.

The electronic device may further include a manual control operable bythe user to generate a controlled descent initiation command forinitiating controlled descent of the retractable line relative to themain body. The operations performed by the processor or programmablecircuit may further include receiving the controlled descent initiationcommand and instructing the wireless transmitter to transmit acontrolled descent initiation signal in response to receipt of thecontrolled descent initiation command. The manual control may include atouch screen, button, switch, motion sensor, or camera of the electronicdevice.

Instructing the wireless transmitter to transmit the wireless signal mayinclude instructing the wireless transmitter to transmit location dataassociated with the detection that the user has fallen. The electronicdevice may further include a global positioning system (GPS) forgenerating the location data. The electronic device may receive thelocation data via a short-range data link to an external device thatincludes a global positioning system (GPS). The short-range data linkmay be a short-range wireless connection. The external device may be asmart phone paired with the electronic device over the short-rangewireless connection.

The operations performed by the processor or programmable circuit mayfurther include, in response to the detection that the user has fallen,initiating a countdown during which the user may prevent the electronicdevice from instructing the wireless transmitter to transmit thewireless signal.

The operations performed by the processor or programmable circuit mayfurther include initiating a fall alarm using a display, a light, and/ora speaker in response to the detection that the user has fallen.

According to one or more embodiments, there is provided aself-retracting lanyard system including a harness connectible to aretractable line of a self-retracting lanyard and wearable by a user ofthe self-retracting lanyard and an electronic device disposable on theharness. The electronic device may include an accelerometer, a processoror programmable circuit, and a non-transitory program storage medium onwhich are stored instructions executable by the processor orprogrammable circuit to perform operations including receiving ameasurement from the accelerometer, comparing the measurement to athreshold, detecting that the user of the self-retracting lanyard hasfallen based on a result of the comparing, and instructing a wirelesstransmitter to transmit a wireless signal in response to the detectionthat the user has fallen.

A method according to one or more embodiments includes disposing anaccelerometer on a harness connectible to a retractable line of aself-retracting lanyard and wearable by a user of the self-retractinglanyard, receiving a measurement from the accelerometer, comparing themeasurement to a threshold, detecting that the user of theself-retracting lanyard has fallen based on a result of the comparing,and instructing a wireless transmitter to transmit a wireless signal inresponse to the detection that the user has fallen.

The present disclosure will be best understood by reference to thefollowing detailed description when read in conjunction with theaccompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

These and other features and advantages of the various embodimentsdisclosed herein will be better understood with respect to the followingdescription and drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a front view of an alarm device coupled to a retractable lineof a self-retracting lanyard, the retractable line being in a generallyvertical configuration;

FIG. 2 is a front view of the alarm device, with the retractable linebeing separated from a vertical axis by an angle associated with anunsafe condition;

FIG. 3 is a front view of the alarm device in an open configuration;

FIG. 4 is an upper perspective view of the alarm device in a closedconfiguration to secure the alarm device to the retractable line;

FIG. 5 is an upper perspective exploded view of a bushing which formspart of the alarm device to dissipate impact forces imparted on thealarm device;

FIG. 6 is a front sectional view of the bushing depicted in FIG. 5;

FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of electrical components of the alarmdevice;

FIG. 8 is a front view of a self-retracting lanyard with controlleddescent functionality, the retractable line being in a generallyvertical configuration;

FIG. 9 is a front view of the self-retracting lanyard with controlleddescent functionality with the retractable line having extended toaccommodate the position of the user;

FIG. 10 is a front view of the self-retracting lanyard with the user ofthe self-retracting lanyard suspended after a fall, the retractable linerestricted from extending relative to the main body;

FIGS. 11A and 11B are schematic views of the self-retracting lanyarddepicting the operation of a manual control to initiate controlleddescent of the self-retracting lanyard, with FIG. 11A depicting theself-retracting lanyard before the operation of the manual control andFIG. 11B depicting the self-retracting lanyard after the operation ofthe manual control;

FIG. 12 is a front view of a manual control housing in an openconfiguration;

FIG. 13 is an upper perspective view of the manual control housing in aclosed configuration to secure the manual control housing to theretractable line;

FIG. 14 is a schematic depiction of the manual control housing includingfunctionality that may be embodied in a combination of dedicatedcircuitry, programmable circuitry, and/or one or more computercomponent(s) included in the manual control housing together withassociated input/output devices;

FIG. 15 is a schematic view of another self-retracting lanyard withcontrolled descent functionality;

FIG. 16 is a schematic view of another self-retracting lanyard withcontrolled descent functionality;

FIG. 17A is a schematic view of another self-retracting lanyard withcontrolled descent functionality;

FIG. 17B is a schematic depiction of a mobile device embodying one ormore functions of a self-retracting lanyard with controlled descentfunctionality;

FIG. 18 is a schematic view of another self-retracting lanyard withcontrolled descent functionality;

FIG. 19 is a front view of a self-retracting lanyard system withemergency response communication functionality;

FIG. 20 is a closeup view of the harness of the self-retracting lanyardsystem, showing a pocket formed integrally with the harness;

FIG. 21A is a closeup view of the harness of the self-retracting lanyardsystem according to an alternative embodiment, showing a pocket thatincludes a fastener for removably fixing the pocket to the harness, thepocket being in an unfixed state; and

FIG. 21B is a closeup view of the harness of the self-retracting lanyardsystem with the pocket that includes the fastener for removably fixingthe pocket to the harness, the pocket being in a fixed state.

FIGS. 22A and 22B are schematic views of a self-retracting lanyardaccording to another embodiment of the innovations described herein,with FIG. 22A depicting the self-retracting lanyard in an extended stateand FIG. 22B depicting the self-retracting lanyard in a retracted state.

Common reference numerals are used throughout the drawings and thedetailed description to indicate the same elements.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The detailed description set forth below in connection with the appendeddrawings is intended as a description of certain embodiments of an alarmdevice for a self-retracting lanyard, of a self-retracting lanyard withcontrolled descent functionality, and of a self-retracting lanyardsystem with emergency response communication functionality and is notintended to represent the only forms that may be developed or utilized.The description sets forth the various structure and/or functions inconnection with the illustrated embodiments, but it is to be understood,however, that the same or equivalent structure and/or functions may beaccomplished by different embodiments that are also intended to beencompassed within the scope of the present disclosure. It is furtherunderstood that the use of relational terms such as first and second,and the like are used solely to distinguish one entity from anotherwithout necessarily requiring or implying any actual such relationshipor order between such entities.

Various aspects of the present disclosure pertain to an alarm devicespecifically configured and adapted for use with a self-retractinglanyard. Along these lines, it is understood that self-retractinglanyards may be connected to a harness worn by an individual working orotherwise located in a potentially dangerous environment, such as anelevated location associated with a falling hazard. The alarm device maybe connected to a retractable line of the self-retracting lanyard toprovide an alert to the individual when the individual approaches aparticularly unsafe location. Thus, when the individual perceives thealarm, the user may return to a safe position. Accordingly, the alarmdevice may provide an additional level of protecting to the individual.

Referring now to the drawings, FIG. 1 depicts an exemplary embodiment ofan alarm device 10 coupled to a self-retracting lanyard 12. As usedherein, the term “self-retracting lanyard” refers to a fall protectiondevice that is attached to a safety harness 13 worn by an individualwhen the individual is located in an environment, which would causeinjury to the individual should the individual inadvertently fall fromsuch environment. For instance, the self-retracting lanyard 12 may beused when located on building scaffolding, on construction sites, on theroof or elevated floor of a building, on top of large machinery, on theoutside of large airplanes, or other elevated environments. The terms“retractable lanyard” or “self-retracting lifeline” may also be used torefer to the self-retracting lanyard 12.

According to one embodiment, the self-retracting lanyard 12 includes amain body 14 and a retractable line 16 or lanyard extending from themain body 14. The main body 14 is connected to an overhead support rail18. In some instances, the main body 14 may be translatable along atleast a portion of the support rail 18, while in other instances, themain body 14 is generally fixed relative to the support rail 18 suchthat the main body 14 cannot translate relative thereto. In theembodiment depicted in FIGS. 1 and 2, the main body 14 can pivotrelative to the upper support rail 18, but cannot translate along thesupport rail 18.

The retractable line 16 may be transitioned relative to the main body 14between a retracted configuration and an extended configuration, whereinthe amount of the line 16 extending out of the main body 14 increases asthe retractable line 16 transitions from the retracted configuration tothe extended configuration. In this regard, the main body 14 may includea spring-biased spool about which the retractable line 16 is wound.Furthermore, the self-retracting lanyard 12 may be specificallyconfigured to utilize inertia to activate a braking mechanism to protectthe individual from the fall. An exemplary self-retracting lanyard 12 isthe DEFY™ Self-Retracting Lanyard sold by Rigid Lifelines, the structureand operation of which is expressly incorporated herein by reference,although it is expressly contemplated that other self-retractinglanyards known in the art may be used with the alarm device 10 describedherein.

FIGS. 1 and 2 depict a user connected to the self-retracting lanyard 12and located on a platform 20. FIGS. 1 and 2 also depict a safe zone 22and an unsafe zone 24 on the platform 20. An objective of the alarmdevice 10 is for the individual to remain on the platform 20 and in thesafe zone 22, as shown in FIG. 1. To that end, the alarm device 10 isadapted to provide an alert to the individual should the individual exitthe safe zone 22 and enter the unsafe zone 24, as shown in FIG. 2. Acomparison of FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrates that the angle of theretractable line 16 relative to a vertical axis 26 increases as theindividual transitions from the safe zone 22 to the unsafe zone 24. Theimportance of this change in angle will be described in more detailbelow.

According to one embodiment, the alarm device 10 includes a housing 28adapted to be engageable with the retractable line 16. In the exemplaryembodiment, the housing 28 is adapted to be engaged with, or coupled to,the retractable line 16, such that the retractable line 16 passesthrough the housing 28. Referring now specifically to FIGS. 3 and 4, toeffectuate such engagement between the housing 28 and the retractableline 16, the exemplary housing 28 is a clam-shell housing having twobodies 30, 32 pivotally coupled to each other. The bodies 30, 32 areconfigured to transition between an open configuration, as shown in FIG.3, and a closed configuration, as shown in FIG. 4 to secure the housing16 to the retractable line 16. The bodies 30, 32 preferably pivotbetween the open and closed configurations, with the bodies 30, 32 beingcoupled via a hinge 34 defining a hinge axis 36. Each body 30, 32includes a respective edge 38, 40 opposite the hinge 34. As the housing28 transitions from the open configuration toward the closedconfiguration, the edges 38, 40 move toward each other to allowcomplimentary latches 42 or other closing mechanisms to engage with eachother to maintain the housing 28 in the closed configuration. Totransition the housing 28 from the closed configuration to the openconfiguration, the latches 42 are disengaged, and the bodies 30, 32 arepivoted about the hinge axis 36 in an opposite direction, which resultsin the edges 38, 40 moving away from each other, until the bodies 30, 32reach the configuration shown in FIG. 3. The clam-shell design of thehousing 28 allows the alarm device 10 to be selectively placed on theretractable line 16. In this regard, the housing 28 may be easilyretro-fitted on existing self-retracing lanyards 12.

The housing 28 includes a channel 44 extending axially therethrough,with the channel 44 being configured to receive the retractable line 16.In the exemplary embodiment, the channel 44 is collectively defined byboth housing bodies 30, 32. When the housing 28 is in the closedconfiguration and the retractable line 16 passes through the channel 44,the housing 28 is circumferentially engaged to the retractable line 16.

The housing bodies 30, 32 may be formed from a polymer material or othermaterials known by those skilled in the art. Furthermore, the housing 28may be formed of a weather resistant material, or have a weatherresistant coating or covering applied thereto to allow the alarm device10 to be used outside and endure the elements, e.g., rain, snow, ice,etc.

Disposed within the channel 44 are a pair of bushings 46, which protectthe housing bodies 30, 23 as the retractable line 16 is extended andretracted. In particular, the bushings 46 may protect one end of thehousing 28 from inadvertent contact with the main body 14 of theself-retracting lanyard 12, and the other end of the housing 28 frominadvertent contact with hardware associated with the safety harness 13worn by the individual. In this regard, the bushings 46 may be formed ofa resilient, shock absorbing material, such as rubber.

According to one embodiment, the bushing 46 is segmented into twobushing bodies 46 a, 46 b to facilitate placement of the bushing 46 onthe retractable line 16. In this regard, both ends of the retractableline 16 may be secured to hardware which may make it difficult to passan end of the retractable line 16 through the bushing 46 for purposes ofconnecting the retractable line 16 to the bushing 46. Therefore, thesegmented configuration of the bushing 46 allows the bushing 46 to bemore easily attached to the retractable line 16. To that end, eachbushing body 46 a, 46 b may include a pair of apertures 47 which arealigned with a pair of corresponding apertures 47 formed on the otherbushing body 46 a, 46 b. When the apertures 47 are aligned, theapertures 47 are adapted to receive a pair of screws or other fastenersfor securing the bushing bodies 46 a, 46 b together. The bushing 46 mayinclude an aperture 47 which may accommodate a set screw or othersecuring device for effectuating engagement between the bushing bodies46 a, 46 b. In this regard, one of the bushing bodies 46 a, 46 b mayinclude internal threads to engage with the fastener/screw. When thebushing bodies 46 a, 46 b are connected to each other about theretractable line 16, the bushing bodies 46 a, 46 b may impart acircumferential force on the retractable line 16 to secure the bushing46 to the retractable line 16.

As shown in FIGS. 3, 5, and 6, one embodiment of the bushing 46 includesan outer surface defining a stepped configuration, which iscomplimentary to a stepped configuration of the channel 44 to facilitateengagement between the bushing 46 and the housing 28. In particular, oneend portion of the bushing 46 defines a first outer diameter OD₁, whilea second end portion of the bushing 46 defines a second outer diameterOD₂ less than the first outer diameter OD₁. The first and second endportions are separated by a shoulder 49 which extends between the firstand second outer diameters OD₁, OD₂. The bushing 46 also includes aninner diameter ID that is sized to allow the retractable line 16 toextend therethrough, while at the same time creating friction, i.e., anengagement force, between the bushing 46 and the retractable line 16. Inthis regard, each bushing 46 is sized to be compatible with aretractable line 16 having a specific diameter. Thus, the bushings 46may be interchanged with different bushings 46 having inner diameterscompatible with a specific sized retractable line 16. In this regard,the outer configuration of the bushings 46 may remain constant to allowfor universal adaptation with a common housing 28.

The housing 28 defines a detection axis 48, with the housing 28 beingadapted to allow at least a portion of the retractable line 16 to beparallel to the detection axis 48 when the housing 28 is engaged withthe retractable line 16. Preferably, and as shown in FIG. 4, a portionof the retractable line 16 extends along the detection axis 48 when thehousing 28 is engaged with the retractable line 16, although the scopeof the present disclosure is not limited thereto. In the exemplaryembodiment, the detection axis 48 is defined by the channel 44 whichreceives the retractable line 16, with the channel 44 being disposedabout the detection axis 48 when the bodies 30, 32 are in the closedconfiguration.

Reference is now made to FIG. 7, which is an exemplary schematicdepiction The alarm device 10 includes several electrical components,including a processor 50, an inclinometer 52, a communication port 54, apower element 56, a speaker 58, a memory module 60, a first alarm light62, a second alarm light 64, and a vibrating alarm element 66.

The processor 50 is preferably located within the housing 28 and isadapted to provide the computing ability to interface the variouselectrical components with each other, and also implement thefunctionality described herein.

The inclinometer 52 is in electrical communication with the processor 50and is preferably located within the housing 28. The inclinometer 52 isconfigured to measure a magnitude of an angle, Θ, between the detectionaxis 48 and a vertical axis 26. In this regard, the inclinometer 52 isused to measure an angle of tilt of the retractable line 16. Theinclinometer 52 is further configured to generate an electrical signalwhen the magnitude of the angle Θ (e.g., tilt) exceeds a presetthreshold.

According to one embodiment, the preset threshold may be between twentydegrees and forty degrees, and more specifically may be thirty degrees.It is contemplated that any preset threshold may be associated with atolerance, such that the inclinometer 52 may determine that the presetthreshold is met when the measurement is within a couple degrees of thepreset threshold. The tolerance may be an industry accepted tolerance,although in one particular embodiment, the tolerance may be as large as+/−5 degrees.

It is contemplated that the preset threshold may be set at amanufacturing facility, and thus, the device 10 may be configured suchthat it does not readily allow an individual to modify the presetthreshold. Restricting the ability to readily change the presetthreshold may provide additional safety and ensure that the alarm device10 is operating as an employer intends. However, it is also contemplatedthat other embodiments of the alarm device 10 may be configured to allowfor variation of the preset threshold by the user. User adjustment maybe effectuated through adjustment buttons (not shown) integrated intothe alarm device 10, or through another user interface known by thoseskilled in the art.

As noted above, the alarm device 10 includes speaker 58, first alarmlight 62, second alarm light 64, and vibrating alarm element 66 each ofwhich may be generally referred to individually or collectively as an“alarm element.” In this regard, the speaker 58 is adapted to provide anaudible alert to the user or nearby co-worker, while the first andsecond alarm lights 62, 64 are adapted to provide visual alerts to theuser or nearby co-worker, and the vibrating alarm element 66 is adaptedto provide a vibratory or touch sensitive alarm to the user. The alertsprovided by the speaker 58, first alarm light 62, second alarm light 64,and vibrating alarm element 66 may continue for as long as angledetected by the inclinometer 52 meets or exceeds the preset threshold.Alternatively, the alerts may be generated only once for each time theinclinometer 52 detects an angle that meets or exceeds the presetthreshold, with the inclinometer 52 requiring a “reset” by detecting anangle below the preset threshold before generating another actuatingsignal.

Each of the speaker 58, first alarm light 62, second alarm light 64, andvibrating alarm element 66 are in operative communication with theinclinometer 52 to receive the electrical signal generated by theinclinometer 52 when the inclinometer 52 detects the magnitude of theangle as satisfying the preset threshold. The speaker 58, first alarmlight 62, second alarm light 64, and vibrating alarm element 66 areadapted to generate respective alert signals in response to receipt ofthe electrical signal.

As shown in the schematic diagram the speaker 58, first alarm light 62,second alarm light 64, and vibrating alarm element 66 are in electricalcommunication with the processor 50, and as such, the speaker 58, firstalarm light 62, second alarm light 64 and vibrating alarm element 66 may“receive” the electrical signal generated by the inclinometer 52 via theprocessor 50. In other words, the electrical signal may be generated bythe inclinometer 52 and transmitted to the processor 50, which in turncommunicates an actuation signal to the speaker 58, first alarm light62, second alarm light 64, and vibrating alarm element 66.Alternatively, the inclinometer 52 may communicate directly with thespeaker 58, first alarm light 62, second alarm light 64, and vibratingalarm element 66.

The speaker 58 may be coupled to the housing 28 and is adapted togenerate an audible alert when the preset threshold is met. The audiblealert may include a series of beeps, a long continuous alert, or otheraudible alert signals known in the art. The audible alert may be heardby the individual wearing the harness 13 and/or by a nearby co-workerwho may be able to communicate with the individual to return to the safezone 22.

According to one embodiment, the first alarm light 62 and second alarmlight 64 are each comprised of an arcuate light strip extending over anexternal surface of the housing 28. The first and second alarm lights62, 64 may be viewed by the individual in the harness 13 and/or by aco-worker who can provide assistance. The first and second alarm lights62, 64 extend substantially 360 degrees about the detection axis 48. Itis understood that the alarm lights 62, 64 may not extend completely 360degrees in order to account for the clam-shell design of the housing 28.In this regard, the lights 62, 64 may be disrupted at the interface ofthe housing bodies 30, 32.

The alarm lights 62, 64 may generate a wide variety of visual alarmsknown in the art. For instance, the alarm lights 62, 64 may generatedifferent colors, different blinking patterns, constant light emission,etc.

Since the alarm device 10 may be used in loud environments, it isunderstood that the audible alert provide by the speaker 58 may not beheard. Furthermore, in many instances, the first and second alarm lights62, 64 may be located behind the individual in the harness 13, and thus,the visual alarms may not be readily perceived. Therefore, the vibratingalarm element 66 is intended to provide an alert which may be morereadily perceived by the individual. In this regard, when theinclinometer 52 generates the electrical signal associated with theunsafe condition, the vibrating element 66 may begin vibrating, withsuch vibrations being communicated along the retractable line 16 suchthat the vibrations are sensed by the individual.

The alarm device 10 may also include a velocimeter 55 to measure thevelocity of the alarm device 10 and location monitor 57 to measure thelocation of the alarm device 10 as it moves. The measured velocity andlocation data may be stored in the memory module 60 for subsequentreview. Such measured velocity and location data may be desirable toreview in the event the individual inadvertently falls from the elevatedlocation, so as to allow for analysis of data associated with the fall.

In addition to storing data generated by the velocimeter 55 and locationmonitor 57, the memory module 60 may also be configured to store datagenerated by the inclinometer 52. Such data may be retrieved through thecommunication port 54, which may be a physical port, such as a USB-port,to allow the data on the memory module 60 to be downloaded to a remoteelectronic device. It is also contemplated that the communication ort 54may be capable of wireless communication, such as WiFi or Bluetooth™communication, thereby allowing wireless downloading of the data fromthe memory module 60.

The electrical components receive power from a power module 56, i.e.,battery, located in the housing 28. The distribution of power from thebattery 56 may be governed by the processor 50.

With the basic structural features of the alarm device 10 beingdescribed above, an exemplary use of the alarm device 10 is providedbelow.

An alarm device 10 is connected to the retractable line 16 of theself-retracting lanyard 12. In one embodiment, the alarm device 10 isadapted to frictionally engage the retractable line 16, and apply acircumferential force thereon to substantially restrict movement of thealarm device 10 along the retractable line 16.

In one embodiment, the alarm device 10 may be transitional between ONand OFF modes, and thus, the user may transition the device 10 from theOFF mode to the ON mode. Such transition may occur automatically upondetection of movement of the alarm device 10, e.g., detection of changesof inclination by the inclinometer, or alternatively, the individual mayactuate a button or other actuator to cause such transition.

With the alarm device 10 ON, the individual performs his work at theelevated location. As the individual moves along the platform 20, theinclinometer 52 detects the magnitude of an angle between a retractableline 16 of the self-retracting lanyard 12 and the vertical axis. Theinclinometer generates a signal when the detected magnitude exceeds apreset threshold. That signal is then communicated to an alert element,such as the speaker 58, first light alarm 62, second light alarm 64and/or vibrating alarm element 66. The alarm element then emits a signalto provide an alert to the user that the user is in an unsafe location,and to return to a safer zone or region.

Thus, when the individual attached to the self-retracting lanyard 12perceives the emitted signal, whether audibly, visually or throughtouch-sensation, or a nearby co-worker hears or views the signal, theindividual may be made aware of the potentially dangerous condition, andcan return to safety, which mitigates likelihood of harm from fall orother dangerous conditions. Along these lines, although it iscontemplated that the unsafe zone or region may be associated with anincreased likelihood of fall, it may be associated with other hazards,such as temperature hazards, chemical hazards, etc.

Various aspects of the present disclosure pertain to a self-retractinglanyard with a user actuated controlled descent functionality. Asdescribed above, it is understood that self-retracting lanyards may beconnected to a harness worn by an individual working or otherwiselocated in a potentially dangerous environment, such as an elevatedlocation associated with a falling hazard. The self-retracting lanyardmay include a manual control that is operable/actuable by the user ofthe self-retracting lanyard to initiate controlled descent. When theuser of the self-retracting lanyard experiences a fall and isdangerously suspended by the self-retracting lanyard and harness, theuser may self-operate/actuate the manual control without assistance tosafely lower himself to the ground. The self-retracting lanyard withcontrolled descent functionality may or may not further include thealarm device described above in relation to FIGS. 1-7. Similarly, thealarm device of FIGS. 1-7 may be used with a self-retracting lanyardwith controlled descent functionality as described below.

Referring again to the drawings, FIGS. 8-10 depict an exemplaryembodiment of a self-retracting lanyard 112. As used herein, the term“self-retracting lanyard” refers to a fall protection device that isattached to a safety harness 113 worn by an individual when theindividual is located in an environment, which would cause injury to theindividual should the individual inadvertently fall from suchenvironment. For instance, the self-retracting lanyard 112 may be usedwhen located on building scaffolding, on construction sites, on the roofor elevated floor of a building, on top of large machinery, on theoutside of large airplanes, or other elevated environments. The terms“retractable lanyard” or “self-retracting lifeline” may also be used torefer to the self-retracting lanyard 112.

According to one embodiment, the self-retracting lanyard 112 includes amain body 114, a retractable line 116 or lanyard extending from the mainbody 114, and a manual control 110. The main body 114 is connected to anoverhead support rail 118. In some instances, the main body 114 may betranslatable along at least a portion of the support rail 118, while inother instances, the main body 114 is generally fixed relative to thesupport rail 118 such that the main body 114 cannot translate relativethereto. In the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 8-10, the main body 114 canpivot relative to the upper support rail 118, but cannot translate alongthe support rail 118.

Just as the retractable line 16 of FIGS. 1-7 may be transitionedrelative to the main body 14, the retractable line 116 may betransitioned relative to the main body 114 between a retractedconfiguration and an extended configuration, wherein the amount of theretractable line 116 extending out of the main body 114 increases as theretractable line 116 transitions from the retracted configuration to theextended configuration. In this regard, just like the main body 14, themain body 114 may include a spring-biased spool about which theretractable line 116 is wound. Furthermore, the self-retracting lanyard112 may be specifically configured to utilize inertia to activate abraking mechanism to protect the individual from the fall. As such, theretractable line 116 may be coupled to the main body 114 so as to beextendible and retractable relative to the main body 114 and to berestricted from extending relative to the main body 114 in response tothe user of the self-retracting lanyard 112 falling. An exemplaryself-retracting lanyard 112 is the DEFY™ Self-Retracting Lanyard sold byRigid Lifelines, the structure and operation of which is expresslyincorporated herein by reference, although it is expressly contemplatedthat other self-retracting lanyards known in the art may be used withthe innovations described herein.

FIGS. 8 and 9 depict a user connected to the self-retracting lanyard 112and located on a platform 120. A comparison of FIGS. 8 and 9 illustratesthat, even with a fixed anchor point of the main body 114 on the uppersupport rail 118, the user of the self-retracting lanyard 112 may freelymove within a range of the main body 114 as the retractable line 116extends and retracts to accommodate the position of the user.

FIG. 10 depicts the same user after a fall, with the retractable line116 restricted from extending relative to the main body 114. As shown,the user is suspended by the self-retracting lanyard 112 and harness113. The user has been saved from a falling injury but remainsvulnerable to suspension trauma or other injury caused by being stuck ina suspended position. In the example of FIG. 10, the platform 120 hasfallen and is no longer near the suspended worker. In this situation,there is no possibility of another worker pulling the suspended workerback up onto the platform 120. In other situations, the platform 120 mayremain but may be inaccessible to other workers or there may be no otherworkers present, making an assisted rescue difficult or impossible. Inaccordance with the innovations described herein, the suspended workerhimself may reach above his head and operate the manual control 110,thereby initiating controlled descent of the retractable line 116relative to the main body 114 of the self-retracting lanyard 112. Inthis way, a user of the self-retracting lanyard 112 may gradually lowerhimself to the ground without assistance.

FIGS. 11A and 11B are schematic views of the self-retracting lanyard 112depicting the operation of a manual control 110 to initiate controlleddescent of the self-retracting lanyard 112. As schematically shown, themain body 114 of the self-retracting lanyard 112 may include acontrolled descent switch 166 for transitioning the self-retractinglanyard 112 into a controlled descent mode. In the controlled descentmode, the retractable line 116 may become free to move relative to themain body 114 in a controlled or otherwise slowed manner to allow a safedescent. The controlled descent switch 166 may transition theself-retracting lanyard 112 to a controlled descent mode from a fallarrest mode or normal mode in which the retractable line 116 isrestricted from extending relative to the main body 114 in response to afall (e.g. a braking mechanism is activated in response to the user'sinertia). The controlled descent switch 166 may be, for example, an RSQ™Engagement Knob of an Ultra-Lok™ RSQ™ Dual-Mode Self-Retracting Lanyardby DBI-SALA® or an internal mechanism engaged by operation of the RSQ™Engagement Knob, with the two modes corresponding to the Descent andFall Arrest operating modes thereof, the structure and operation ofwhich is expressly incorporated herein by reference.

In some cases, the controlled descent switch 166 may transition theself-retracting lanyard 112 from a fall arrest mode to a controlleddescent mode and back to the fall arrest mode. With such aconfiguration, the user may freely switch from fall arrest mode tocontrolled descent mode and back again to fall arrest mode by operationof the manual control 110. For example, in the illustrated example wherethe manual control 110 includes a lever 111 disposed on a manual controlhousing 128, the user may switch from fall arrest mode to controlleddescent mode and back again to fall arrest mode by alternately pullingand releasing the lever 112 (or by alternately pulling and pushing thelever 112). This may be useful in a situation where the user wishes onlyto lower himself to an intermediate level where other workers might benear enough to his path of descent to assist him. Alternatively, thecontrolled descent switch 166 may unidirectionally transition theself-retracting lanyard 112 to the controlled descent mode. In thiscase, the controlled descent mode may cause the retractable line 116 tocontinue extending until it reaches an unusable fully extended state, orthe controlled descent mode may irreversibly disable the brakingmechanism, with the self-retracting lanyard 112 having to be resetbefore being used again (e.g. by a qualified technician in charge ofmaintaining the self-retracting lanyard 112).

The main body 114 may further include an actuator 168 arranged toactuate the controlled descent switch 166. In the example of FIGS. 11Aand 11B, the actuator 168 receives an electric signal upon the operationof the manual control 110. In this case, the actuator 168 may be alinear solenoid as schematically depicted, a rotary solenoid, or anyother device that can convert an electric signal into a mechanicalmotion to actuate the controlled descent switch 166. The manual control110 is operable to generate an electric signal on a signal pathextending from the manual control housing 128 to the main body 114. Whenthe user of the self-retracting lanyard 112 reaches up above his headand operates the manual control 110 (e.g. pulls the lever 111 to a downposition), an electric signal is generated at the manual control housing128 and received by the main body 114 (e.g. by the actuator 168) via thesignal path. The actuator 168 is configured to actuate the controlleddescent switch 166 in response to the electric signal. The signal pathmay include, for example, a wire 170 in the retractable line 116 (e.g.an internal conductor of a load cable) and a slip ring arrangementwithin the main body 114 to carry the electric signal to the actuator168. The electric signal is schematically illustrated by arrows in FIG.11B.

In a case where the controlled descent switch 166 is operable totransition the self-retracting lanyard 112 bidirectionally between afall arrest mode and a controlled descent mode, the manual control 110may further be operable to cease generation of the electric signal (e.g.when the lever 111 is pushed to an up position or when the lever 111 isreleased). In such case, the actuator 168 may be spring biased so as tocease actuation of the controlled descent switch 166 when no longerreceiving the electric signal.

In the illustrated example, operation of the manual control 110 isaccomplished by means of a lever 111 on the manual control housing 128.More generally, the manual control 110 may include any kind of switch orbutton on the manual control housing 128. In some cases, the manualcontrol 110 may support touchless operation and may include, forexample, a motion sensor on the manual control housing 128. The user mayoperate such a manual control 110 simply by reaching up and putting ahand near the manual control housing 128. Inadvertent initiation ofcontrolled descent mode may be avoided, for example, by configuring thebraking mechanism to cause the controlled descent switch 166 (e.g. bymeans of an electric signal) to enter an active mode in which initiatingcontrolled descent mode is possible. While not in the active mode (e.g.before a fall), the controlled descent switch 166 may be actuated by theactuator 168 with no effect. Once in the active mode (e.g. after afall), actuation by the actuator 168 may cause the controlled descentswitch 166 to initiate controlled descent mode.

According to one embodiment, the manual control housing 128 is adaptedto be engageable with the retractable line 116 in substantially the sameway that the housing 28 described above may be engageable with theretractable line 16 (see FIGS. 3-6). In the exemplary embodiment, themanual control housing 128 is adapted to be engaged with, or coupled to,the retractable line 116, such that the retractable line 116 passesthrough the manual control housing 128. Referring now specifically toFIGS. 12 and 13, to effectuate such engagement between the manualcontrol housing 128 and the retractable line 116, the exemplary manualcontrol housing 128 is a clam-shell housing having two bodies 130, 132pivotally coupled to each other. The bodies 130, 132 are configured totransition between an open configuration, as shown in FIG. 12, and aclosed configuration, as shown in FIG. 13 to secure the manual controlhousing 128 to the retractable line 116. The bodies 130, 132 preferablypivot between the open and closed configurations, with the bodies 130,132 being coupled via a hinge 134 defining a hinge axis 136. Each body130, 132 includes a respective edge 138, 140 opposite the hinge 134. Asthe manual control housing 128 transitions from the open configurationtoward the closed configuration, the edges 138, 140 move toward eachother to allow complimentary latches 142 or other closing mechanisms toengage with each other to maintain the manual control housing 128 in theclosed configuration. To transition the manual control housing 128 fromthe closed configuration to the open configuration, the latches 142 aredisengaged, and the bodies 130, 132 are pivoted about the hinge axis 136in an opposite direction, which results in the edges 138, 140 movingaway from each other, until the bodies 130, 132 reach the configurationshown in FIG. 12.

The manual control housing 128 may include a channel 144 extendingaxially therethrough, with the channel 144 being configured to receivethe retractable line 116. In the exemplary embodiment, the channel 144is collectively defined by both housing bodies 130, 132. When the manualcontrol housing 128 is in the closed configuration and the retractableline 116 passes through the channel 144, the manual control housing 128is circumferentially engaged to the retractable line 116.

Disposed within the channel 144 are a pair of bushings 146, which keepthe manual control housing 128 in place as the retractable line 116 isextended and retracted. In some cases, the bushings 146 may also protectone end of the manual control housing 128 from inadvertent contact withthe main body 114 of the self-retracting lanyard 112, and the other endof the manual control housing 128 from inadvertent contact with hardwareassociated with the safety harness 113 worn by the individual. In thisregard, the bushings 146 may be formed of a resilient, shock absorbingmaterial, such as rubber.

According to one embodiment, the bushing 146 is segmented into twobushing bodies 146 a, 146 b. The bushing 146 and bushing bodies 146 a,146 b may have substantially the same structure and function in relationto the manual control housing 128 and retractable line 116 as thebushing 46 and bushing bodies 46 a, 46 b have in relation to the housing28 and retractable line 16 (see FIGS. 3-6).

The clam-shell design of the manual control housing 128 allows themanual control housing 128 to be selectively placed on or removed fromthe retractable line 116. To this end, the wire 170 may terminate in aconnector 172 that protrudes outside the retractable line 116. When themanual control housing 128 having the clam-shell design is positioned onthe retractable line 116, the connector 172 may be plugged into acorresponding connector on the interior of the manual control housing128 or on a circuit board or electronics sub-housing within the manualcontrol housing 128. In this way, the manual control housing 128 may beconfigured to be assembled to and disassembled from the self-retractinglanyard 112 (e.g. for use on more than one self-retracting lanyard 112).Additionally, the wire 170 may be designed to protrude some distanceoutside the retractable line 116 in order to accommodate a range ofpositions along the retractable line 116 that the manual control housing128 may be assembled. The manual control housing 128 may include a spaceor spool for excess slack in the external portion of the wire 170.Alternatively, the manual control housing 128 may not have theclam-shell design or the connector 172 and may be permanently fitted onthe retractable line 116 of the self-retracing lanyard 112.

The housing bodies 130, 132 may be formed from a polymer material orother materials known by those skilled in the art. Furthermore, themanual control housing 128 may be formed of a weather resistantmaterial, or have a weather resistant coating or covering appliedthereto to allow the internal components of the manual control housing128 to be used outside and endure the elements, e.g., rain, snow, ice,etc.

Reference is now made to FIG. 14, which is an exemplary schematicdepiction of the manual control housing 128 including functionality thatmay be embodied in a combination of dedicated circuitry, programmablecircuitry, and/or one or more computer component(s) included in themanual control housing 128 together with associated input/outputdevices. As noted above, the self-retracting lanyard 112 may include thealarm device 10 described above in relation to FIGS. 1-7. In thisregard, the manual control housing 128 may include a processor 150,inclinometer 152, communication port 154, velocimeter 155, battery orother power supply element 156, location monitor 157, speaker 158,memory 160, first alarm light 162, second alarm light 164, and vibratingelement 166 having substantially the same structural relationship andfunctionality as the processor 50, inclinometer 52, communication port54, velocimeter 55, power element 56, location monitor 57, speaker 58,memory 60, first alarm light 62, second alarm light 64, and vibratingelement 66 described above in relation to FIG. 7. Instead, oradditionally, the manual control housing 128 may include componentsrelated to the operation of the manual control 110. For example, themanual control housing 128 may include a signal generator 174 forgenerating the electric signal on the wire 170 in response to theoperation of the manual control 110. The signal generator 174 may be,for example, a signal generating circuit connected directly to themanual control 110 or to the processor 150, where the processor 150 mayissue a signal generation command in response to the operation of themanual control 110. In the latter case, software instructions forissuing the signal generation command in response to the output of themanual control 110 may be stored on the memory 160.

FIG. 15 is a schematic view of a self-retracting lanyard 112 a accordingto another embodiment of the innovations described herein. Theself-retracting lanyard 112 a may be substantially the same as theself-retracting lanyard 112 described above, including a main body 114 awith a controlled descent switch 166 a, a retractable line 116 a, and amanual control 110 a that are substantially the same as the main body114 with controlled descent switch 166, retractable line 116, and manualcontrol 110 of FIGS. 8-14, with the following differences. Whereas theactuator 168 of the self-retracting lanyard 112 converts a receivedelectric signal into a mechanical motion to actuate the controlleddescent switch 166, the actuator 168 a converts an increased airpressure or other fluid pressure into mechanical motion to actuate thecontrolled descent switch 166 a. To this end, the actuator 168 a isfluidly connected to a fluid supply 176 (e.g. a compressed air source)of the main body 114 a by a pneumatically or hydraulically operatedvalve 178. The fluid supply 176 may include an internal reservoir offluid disposed within the main body 114 a or a connection to an externalreservoir of fluid. Whereas the manual control 110 is operable togenerate an electric signal, the manual control 110 a is operable togenerate a pneumatic or hydraulic signal on a signal path such as apilot hose 170 a extending from the manual control housing 128 a to themain body 114 a, e.g. to the valve 178 of the fluid supply 176.

When the user of the self-retracting lanyard 112 a reaches up above hishead and operates the manual control 110 a (e.g. pulls a lever 111 a toa down position), a pneumatic or hydraulic signal is generated at themanual control housing 128 a and received by the main body 114 a via thesignal path. The pneumatic or hydraulic signal may be, for example, aslight increase in pressure inside the pilot hose 170 a caused by thelever 111 a or other manual control 110 a depressing a plunger that isfluidly coupled to the pilot hose 170 a inside the manual controlhousing 128 a. In response to the signal, the valve 178 may open,allowing air or other fluid from the fluid supply 176 to flow into theactuator 168 a, increasing the pressure therein to cause the actuator168 a to mechanically actuate the controlled descent switch 166 a. In acase where the controlled descent switch 166 a is operable to transitionthe self-retracting lanyard 112 a bidirectionally between a fall arrestmode and a controlled descent mode, the manual control 110 a may furtherbe operable (e.g. when the lever 111 a is pushed to an up position) toinduce a pressure drop in the pilot hose 170 a (e.g. by pulling aplunger out) to close the valve 178. In such case, the actuator 168 amay be spring biased and may include a vent or release valve to release(e.g. to atmosphere) the fluid that has already filled the actuator 168a from the fluid supply 176, so as to cease actuation of the controlleddescent switch 166 a when the valve 178 is closed.

In a case where the fluid supply 176 includes an internal reservoir offluid disposed within the main body 114 a, the fluid supply 176 maycomprise, for example, a replaceable compressed gas cartridge, such as acarbon dioxide (CO₂) cartridge that may be inserted into the main body114 a to provide a one-shot use (or in some cases multiple uses) of thecontrolled descent mode. Upon being depleted or otherwise in need ofreplacement (e.g. after a single use), the used cartridge may be removedand a new one inserted. Alternatively, the fluid supply 176 may bedisposed within the manual control housing 128 a instead of in the mainbody 114 a. In this case, upon manipulation of the manual control 110 a,the pilot hose 170 a may deliver the compressed gas from the fluidsupply 176 to actuate the controlled descent switch 166 a directly,rather than to actuate a valve in the main body 114 a. When using such amanual control housing 128 a with integrated fluid supply 176 to actuatethe controlled descent switch 166 a, it is no longer necessary toprovide the fluid supply 176 and valve 178 in the main body 114 a. As aresult, little if any modification to a preexisting self-retractinglanyard may be necessary.

In the embodiment of FIG. 15, the retractable line 116 a need notinclude the wire 170 and the manual control housing 110 a need notinclude an electric signal generator 174 (though it is contemplated thatthe valve 178 may be opened by an electric signal instead of apneumatic/hydraulic signal, in which case the wire 170 and electricsignal generator 174 may be used instead of or in addition to the pilothose 170 a). The flexible nature of the pilot hose 170 a may allow themanual control housing 110 a to be freely assembled within a range ofpositions along the retractable line 116 a (e.g. if the manual controlhousing 110 a has the clam-shell design described above). The pilot hose170 a may coil around the retractable line 116 a so as to extend orretract in conjunction with the retractable line 116 a.

FIG. 16 is a schematic view of a self-retracting lanyard 112 b accordingto another embodiment of the innovations described herein. Theself-retracting lanyard 112 b may be substantially the same as theself-retracting lanyard 112 described above, including a main body 114 bhaving a controlled descent switch 166 b and a retractable line 116 bthat are substantially the same as the main body 114 with controlleddescent switch 166 and retractable line 116 of FIGS. 8-14, with thefollowing differences. Whereas the main body 114 includes an actuator168 that converts a received electric signal into a mechanical motion toactuate the controlled descent switch 166, the main body 114 b includesa secondary spool 180 coupled to a cam 182 arranged to actuate thecontrolled descent switch 166 b. Wound on the secondary spool 180 is acontrolled descent actuation line 170 b terminating in a handle 111 bthat dangles above the head of the user of the self-retracting lanyard112 b. In some embodiments, the handle 111 b may be clipped or otherwiseconnected to the retractable line 116 b to prevent it from swingingaround as the user moves or moving out of the user's reach as well asfor other purposes described below. The handle 111 b is an example of amanual control 110 b for initiating controlled descent and may serve asa grip allowing the user to easily pull down on the controlled descentactuation line 170 b. Whereas the manual control 110 of FIGS. 8-14 isoperable to generate an electric signal on a single path (i.e. the wire170), the operation of the handle 111 b may, in a sense, be regarded asgenerating a mechanical signal on a signal path (i.e. the controlleddescent actuation line 170 b). The secondary spool 180 may convert thelinear motion imparted on the controlled descent actuation line 170 b bythe user's hand to rotational motion of the cam 182 that mechanicallyactuates the controlled descent switch 166 b.

Just like the primary spool (not pictured) on which the retractable line116 b is wound, the secondary spool 180 may be a spring biased spoolthat allows for selective lengthening and shortening of the exposedportion of the controlled descent actuation line 170 b while keeping thecontrolled descent actuation line 170 b generally taut. The secondaryspool 180 may be operatively coupled to the primary spool so as to movein a linked manner with the primary spool, causing the controlleddescent actuation line 170 b to extend and retract together with theretractable line 116 b as the retractable line 116 b extends or retractsto accommodate the user's changing position while the user is working.Alternatively, if the handle 111 b is clipped or otherwise connected tothe retractable line 116 b as described above, the connection betweenthe handle 111 b and the retractable line 116 b may function to causethe controlled descent actuation line 170 b to move together with theretractable line 116 b without requiring any coupling between thespools. The controlled descent actuation line 170 b may be made of thesame material as the retractable line 116 b or may be made of a materialwith reduced strength, as it is not used to support a person's weight.

When the user of the self-retracting lanyard 112 b has fallen and theretractable line 116 b is restricted from extending relative to the mainbody 114 b, the braking mechanism may further align the secondary spool180 with the controlled descent switch 166 b so as to enable actuationof the controlled descent switch 166 b by the cam 182. In this way,extending of the controlled descent actuation line 170 b during ordinaryextending and retracting of the retractable line 116 b doesn't initiatecontrolled descent mode. Once the secondary spool 180 is aligned withthe controlled descent switch 166 b, when the user of theself-retracting lanyard 112 b reaches up above his head and operates themanual control 110 b (e.g. pulls the handle 111 b), the mechanicalmotion of the controlled descent actuation line 170 b causes thesecondary spool 180 to rotate, bringing the cam 182 into physicalcontact with the controlled descent switch 166 b to mechanically actuatethe controlled descent switch 166 b. In some embodiments, the controlleddescent switch 166 b may be spring biased and operable to keep theself-retracting lanyard 112 b in a controlled descent mode only so longas the controlled descent switch 166 b is depressed or otherwiseoperated. In such case, the controlled descent mode may require acontinuous pulling down on the handle 111 b, with the release of thehandle 111 b causing the controlled descent switch 166 b no longer to beoperated and to transition the self-retracting lanyard 112 b back to afall arrest mode, thus allowing bidirectional transitioning between thefall arrest mode and the controlled descent mode as described above.

As an alternative to the physical alignment of the secondary spool 180with the controlled descent switch 166 b, other means of preventinginadvertent initiation of controlled descent mode are also contemplated.For example, rather than aligning the secondary spool 180 with thecontrolled descent switch 166 b, the braking mechanism may cause thecontrolled descent switch 166 b (e.g. by means of an electric signal) toenter an active mode in which initiating controlled descent mode ispossible. While not in the active mode (e.g. before a fall), thecontrolled descent switch 166 b may be physically contacted by the cam182 with no effect. Once in the active mode (e.g. after a fall),physical contact by the controlled descent switch 166 b may cause thecontrolled descent switch 166 b to initiate controlled descent mode.

In the embodiment of FIG. 16, the retractable line 116 b need notinclude the wire 170 or the manual control housing 128. Alternatively, amanual control housing like the manual control housing 128 or 128 a maybe freely assembled within a range of positions along the retractableline 116 b, for the purpose of providing additional functionality asdescribed above (e.g. inclinometer and alarm functionality). In suchcase, the handle 111 b may be clipped or otherwise connected to themanual control housing 128, 128 a instead of to the retractable line 116b.

FIG. 17A is a schematic view of a self-retracting lanyard 112 caccording to another embodiment of the innovations described herein. Theself-retracting lanyard 112 c may be substantially the same as theself-retracting lanyard 112 described above, including a main body 114 cwith a controlled descent switch 166 c and a retractable line 116 c thatare substantially the same as the main body 114 with controlled descentswitch 166 and retractable line 116 of FIGS. 8-14, with the followingdifferences. Whereas the actuator 168 of the self-retracting lanyard 112converts an electric signal received via the wire 170 into a mechanicalmotion to actuate the controlled descent switch 166, the actuator 168 cincludes a wireless receiver 184 and actuates the controlled descentswitch 166 c in response to receipt of a controlled descent initiationsignal by the wireless receiver 184. Upon receiving the controlleddescent initiation signal, the wireless receiver 184 may, for example,internally generate an electric signal that causes the actuator 168 c tomechanically actuate the controlled descent switch 166 c. Instead of themanual control housing 128, the self-retracting lanyard 112 c may have adock 128 c to which a mobile device 200 such as a smart phone may bedocked. An input device (e.g. touchscreen, button, switch, motion sensorsuch as a proximity sensor, camera, etc.) of the mobile device 200 mayserve as a manual control 110 c for initiating controlled descent of theself-retracting lanyard 112 c.

Referring now to the exemplary mobile device 200 schematicallyillustrated in FIG. 17B, one or more input devices such as a touchscreen210 a, buttons/switches 210 b, a proximity sensor 210 c, and/or a camera210 d may collectively correspond to the manual control 110 c of FIG.17A. When the user of the self-retracting lanyard 112 c reaches up abovehis head and operates the input device(s) 210 a, 210 b, 210 c, 210 dcorresponding to the manual control 110 c, a processor 220 within themobile device 200 generates a controlled descent initiation command inresponse to the user operation of the input device(s) 210 a, 210 b, 210c, 210 d. Upon receipt of the controlled descent initiation command, atransmitter block of a wireless transceiver 230 wirelessly transmits acontrolled descent initiation signal. The wireless transceiver 230 maybe configured to transmit the controlled descent initiation signal viaan antenna in accordance with one or more known wireless communicationstandards (e.g. Bluetooth™, Wi-Fi, GSM, UMTS). In response to receipt ofthe controlled descent initiation signal transmitted by the wirelesstransceiver 230, the wireless receiver 184 of the actuator 168 cactuates the controlled descent switch 166 c. In a case where thecontrolled descent switch 166 c is operable to transition theself-retracting lanyard 112 c bidirectionally between a fall arrest modeand a controlled descent mode, the manual control 110 c may further beoperable to cease generation of or otherwise cancel the controlleddescent initiation command (e.g. in response to a further operation ofthe input device(s) 210 a, 210 b, 210 c, 210 d), causing the wirelesstransceiver 230 to cease transmission of the controlled descentinitiation signal. In such case, the actuator 168 c may be spring biasedso as to cease actuation of the controlled descent switch 166 c when thewireless receiver 184 no longer receives the controlled descentinitiation signal.

The mobile device 200 may be, for example, a smart phone belonging tothe worker or the worker's employer. Software instructions (e.g. amobile app) for the above-described functionality may be stored in amemory 240 in communication with the processor 220. In this way, uponexecution of the software instructions stored in the memory 240, theprocessor 220 may cause one or more of the input device(s) 210 a, 210 b,210 c, 210 d of the mobile device 200 to function as the manual control110 c for initiating controlled descent of the self-retracting lanyard112 c.

Alternatively, a peripheral device 111 c connectible to the mobiledevice 200 may function as the manual control 110 c, where theperipheral device 111 c includes a lever, switch, button, or motionsensor external to the mobile device 200. The peripheral device 111 cmay a dongle-type peripheral or may be embodied in the dock 128 citself. In the latter case, the mobile device 200 may be plugged intothe dock 128 c to establish a connection with the peripheral device 111c. The peripheral device 111 c is shown in dashed lines as analternative/optional configuration of the self-retracting lanyard 112 c.

In the embodiment of FIGS. 17A and 17B, the self-retracting lanyard 112c need not include the wire 170 or any other signal path between themanual control 110 c and the main body 114 c (as the controlled descentinitiation signal is transmitted wirelessly). The dock 128 c may befreely assembled within a range of positions along the retractable line116 c.

In accordance with the embodiment of FIGS. 17A and 17B, additionalfunctionality as described above in relation to FIGS. 1-7 (e.g.inclinometer and alarm functionality) may be realized in the mobiledevice 200. To this end, the software instructions executed by theprocessor 220 may further cause one or more of the components of themobile device 200 to function as the inclinometer 152, speaker 158,first alarm light 162, second alarm light 164, and vibrating element166. For example, a gyroscope 250 and/or accelerometer 260 of the mobiledevice 200 may function as the inclinometer 152, a display 270 and/orlights 280 of the mobile device 200 may function as the first alarmlight 162 and second alarm light 164, a speaker 290 of the mobile device200 may function as the speaker 158, and a vibration element 292 (e.g.an off-center motor) of the mobile device 200 may function as thevibrating alarm element 166. As a user of the self-retracting lanyard112 c moves along the platform 120, the gyroscope 250 and/oraccelerometer 260 may detect the magnitude of an angle between theretractable line 116 c of the self-retracting lanyard 112 c and thevertical axis, and the processor 220 may generate a signal when thedetected magnitude exceeds a preset threshold. That signal may then becommunicated to an alarm element, such as the speaker 290, display 270,lights 280, and/or vibration element 292. The alarm element then emits asignal to provide an alert to the user that the user is in an unsafelocation, and to return to a safer zone or region. By taking advantageof mobile device components appropriately programmed using a mobile appin this way, it is possible to omit dedicated components of theself-retracting lanyard 112 c.

Along the same lines, it should be noted that the functionality of thepower supply element 156, communication port 154, velocimeter 155, andlocation monitor 157, as well as any other described functionality ofthe processor 150 and memory 160, may also be embodied in appropriatecomponents of the mobile device 200. To this end, in addition to thosepictured elements, the mobile device 200 may further include a mobiledevice battery, data port, GPS, and/or compass.

It is also contemplated that the software instructions executed by theprocessor 220 may include the above inclinometer and alarm functionalityand not the above controlled descent functionality. In this regard, themobile device 200 may function as the alarm device 10 described inrelation to FIGS. 1-7. A conventional self-retracting lanyard may beretrofitted with a dock similar to the dock 128 c, with the alarmfunctionality (including inclinometer functionality) completely embodiedin a mobile device 200 as described above. If the above-describedcontrolled descent functionality is omitted, a conventional main body 14may be used (e.g. without wireless receiver 184).

In a case where the mobile device 200 is used only for controlleddescent functionality and not for inclinometer and alarm functionality,it is also contemplated that the dock 128 c may be completely omittedand the mobile device 200 kept in the worker's pocket or elsewhere,including in the possession of another person (e.g. team leader, safetypersonnel, etc.). When the worker wearing the self-retracting lanyard112 c experiences a fall and requires rescue, the worker or other personmay operate the input device(s) 210 a, 210 b, 210 c, 210 d of the mobiledevice 200 functioning as the manual control 110 c to initiatecontrolled descent of the self-retracting lanyard 112 c by wirelesstransmission. If the mobile device 200 is in the worker's pocket orotherwise on the worker's person, the fall itself may be detected usingthe mobile device 200. For example, a sudden “jerk” caused by thebraking mechanism of the retractable line 116 may cause a measurement ofthe accelerometer 260 to exceed a threshold indicating fall detection inaccordance with appropriate instructions performed by the processor 220.In response to such fall detection, the processor 220 may initiate afall alarm using the display 270, lights 280, and/or speaker 290, and/ormay automatically notify another party (other employees, employer,emergency services, etc.) by transmitting a wireless signal using thewireless transceiver 230. A person receiving the notification (e.g. onanother mobile device 200) may then initiate a rescue response. If thenotification is received at a mobile device 200 that is capable offunctioning as the manual control 110 c as described above, it iscontemplated that the person receiving the notification may initiatecontrolled descent of the self-retracting lanyard 112 c by wirelesstransmission using the mobile device 200, which may be especiallyadvantageous in a case where the worker is unconscious. In this regard,it is envisioned that designated safety personnel, supervisors, or otherpeople may operate a mobile app on a supervisor mobile device 200 thatis linked to one or more self-retracting lanyards 112 c and/or workermobile devices 200. Such mobile app may be capable of receiving alertsfrom the linked self-retracting lanyards 112 c and/or worker mobiledevices 200 and, in some embodiments, initiating controlled descent ofthe one or more linked self-retracting lanyards 112 c.

Such a mobile application (“app”) on a supervisor or worker's mobiledevice 200 may include various other features aimed at communicatinginformation and performing functions for keeping worker's safe whileworking at height. For example, an app installed on a supervisor'smobile device 200 may communicate with a worker's mobile device 200 toprovide telemetry and status including, for example, workerheight/altimeter, GPS and/or work cell coordinates, temperature, time ofday, elapsed time (e.g. job start stop), worker name and credentials,device status, battery life, productivity based on use, cycles, cableangle, etc., work area/work cell name, equipment description,preventative maintenance based on cycles, job summary, connectionstatus, system overview, user profile, G-meter, cycles based on altitudechange, frequency of use, etc. including subscription-based servicethereof. In addition to telemetry and status, the app may also providefunctions such as GPS tracking, walkie-talkie communication betweenworker and supervisor, camera, messaging,supervisor/administrator-operated remote-controlled descent, remote hooklowering of self-retracting lanyards in an unloaded state, remotehorizontal traversing of self-retracting lanyards, etc.

FIG. 18 is a schematic view of a self-retracting lanyard 112 d accordingto another embodiment of the innovations described herein. Theself-retracting lanyard 112 d may be substantially the same as theself-retracting lanyard 112 c described above with respect to FIG. 17A,including a main body 114 d with a controlled descent switch 166 d andactuator 168 d (including wireless receiver 184 d) and a retractableline 116 d that are substantially the same as the main body 114 c withcontrolled descent switch 122 c and actuator 168 c (including wirelessreceiver 184) and fall-arresting cable 116 c of FIG. 17A, with thefollowing differences. Whereas the self-retracting lanyard 112 cincludes a dock 128 c for holding a mobile device in place of the manualcontrol housing 128 of FIGS. 8-14, the self-retracting lanyard 112 domits the dock 128 c and includes a manual control housing 128 d similarto the manual control housing 128 of FIGS. 8-14. The manual controlhousing 128 d may include a manual control 110 d similar to the manualcontrol 110 (e.g. including a lever 111 d as illustrated) as well as awireless transmitter 186 d. The manual control 110 d is operable togenerate a controlled descent initiation command within the manualcontrol housing 128 d. Upon receipt of the controlled descent initiationcommand, the wireless transmitter 186 d transmits the controlled descentinitiation signal. In this way, the self-retracting lanyard 112 d mayinclude a dedicated wireless transmitter 186 d instead of using awireless transceiver 230 of a mobile device 200 like the self-retractinglanyard 112 c.

The self-retracting lanyard 112 d of FIG. 18 may be substantially thesame as the self-retracting lanyard 112 of FIGS. 8-14 but with wirelesstransmission replacing the wired transmission of a signal from themanual control housing 128 to the actuator 168. As such, the contents ofthe manual control housing 128 d may be substantially the same as thoseof the manual control housing 128 (see FIGS. 12-14) but with thewireless transmitter 186 d in place of or in addition to the signalgenerator 174. The wire 170 (and connector 172) may be omitted, and themanual control housing 128 d may be freely assembled within a range ofpositions along the retractable line 116 d. The wireless transmitter 186d (which may also refer to a wireless transceiver or a transmitter blockof a wireless transceiver) may be configured to transmit the controlleddescent initiation signal via an antenna in accordance with one or moreknown wireless communication standards (e.g. Bluetooth™, Wi-Fi, GSM,UMTS). In response to receipt of the controlled descent initiationsignal transmitted by the wireless transmitter 186 d, the wirelessreceiver 184 d of the actuator 168 d actuates the controlled descentswitch 166 d. In a case where the controlled descent switch 166 d isoperable to transition the self-retracting lanyard 112 d bidirectionallybetween a fall arrest mode and a controlled descent mode, the manualcontrol 110 d may further be operable to cease generation of orotherwise cancel the controlled descent initiation command (e.g. whenthe lever 111 d is pushed to an up position), causing the wirelesstransmitter 186 d to cease transmission of the controlled descentinitiation signal. In such case, the actuator 168 d may be spring biasedso as to cease actuation of the controlled descent switch 166 d when thewireless receiver 184 d no longer receives the controlled descentinitiation signal.

Various combinations and modifications of the above embodiments are alsocontemplated. For example, inclinometer functionality may reside in ahousing or dock on the retractable line, while alarm functionality mayreside in the main body. In response to an unsafe angle of incline, adedicated or mobile device transmitter may transmit a signal to awireless receiver in the main body, which produces an audio or visualalarm. This may be advantageous if the main body can support louderspeakers, brighter lights, etc. than the housing or mobile device. Ifcontrolled descent functionality is also included, the wirelesstransmitter and wireless receiver can thus be used for both alarm andcontrolled descent functionality for increased efficiency and reducedcost.

Various aspects of the present disclosure pertain to a self-retractinglanyard system with emergency response communication functionality. Asdescribed above, it is understood that self-retracting lanyards may beconnected to a harness worn by an individual working or otherwiselocated in a potentially dangerous environment, such as an elevatedlocation associated with a falling hazard. The self-retracting lanyardsystem may include the harness and an electronic device that isdisposable on the harness. When the user of the self-retracting lanyardexperiences a fall and is dangerously suspended and/or injured, theelectronic device may compare an accelerometer measurement to athreshold to detect that the user of the self-retracting lanyard hasfallen and instruct a wireless transmitter to transmit a wireless signalto emergency responses services or personnel. The self-retractinglanyard system may or may not further include the alarm functionalitydescribed above in relation to FIGS. 1-7 and/or the controlled descentfunctionality described above in relation to FIGS. 8-18.

Referring again to the drawings, FIGS. 19-21B depict exemplaryembodiments of a self-retracting lanyard system with emergency responsecommunication functionality. The self-retracting lanyard system mayinclude, in addition to the harness 13, an electronic device 400disposable on the harness 13 (see FIGS. 20, 21A, and 21B). Theelectronic device 400 may be an existing mobile telecommunicationsdevice such as a smart phone. Alternatively, the electronic device 400may be a custom device having the features described herein and may, forexample, consist of a compact plastic enclosure that houses electronics.In this regard, the electronic device 400 may have any or all of thefeatures of the mobile device 200 (see FIG. 17B).

Of particular note for purposes of the present disclosure, theelectronic device 400 may have a processor 220, a wireless transceiver230, a memory 240, and an accelerometer 260 (see FIG. 17B). Inaccordance with instructions stored on the memory 240, the processor 220may receive a measurement from the accelerometer 260, compare themeasurement to a threshold, and detect that the user of theself-retracting lanyard 12 has fallen based on a result of thecomparison. For example, as explained above, a sudden “jerk” caused bythe braking mechanism of the retractable line 116 may cause ameasurement of the accelerometer 260 to exceed a threshold indicatingfall detection in accordance with appropriate instructions performed bythe processor 220. If the electronic device 400 includes a gyroscope250, the detection of the fall may further depend on a measurement fromthe gyroscope 250, e.g. a comparison of the measurement of the gyroscope250 to a threshold. In response to such fall detection, the processor220 instructs a wireless transmitter such as the wireless transceiver230 to transmit a wireless signal, for example, over a cellular or Wi-Finetwork or as a beacon (e.g. Bluetooth beacon). In this way, theelectronic device 400 may automatically notify another party (otheremployees, employer, emergency services including subscription-basedemergency services tailored for the subscribing organization, etc.) asdescribed above. The notified party may then initiate a rescue response.

The wireless transmitter that transmits the wireless signal to emergencyresponse personnel may or may not be included in the electronic device400. In particular, it is contemplated that the wireless transceiver 230of the electronic device 400 may only be used to establish ashort-wireless connection (e.g. via Bluetooth pairing) to an externaldevice such as a smart phone in the user's pocket or electronics in ahousing 128 disposed on the retractable line 116 (see FIGS. 12-14). Inthis case, the wireless transmitter that transmits the wireless signalto emergency response personnel, e.g. over a cellular network, may beincluded in the external device. The electronic device 400 may instructsuch external wireless transmitter to transmit the wireless signal viathe short-range wireless connection. Other short-range data linksbetween the electronic device 400 and the external device, includingwired connections (e.g. USB), are also contemplated, in which case theelectronic device 400 may not include the wireless transceiver 230 atall.

As noted above, the electronic device 400 may be paired with an externaldevice (e.g. a smart phone having some or all of the components of themobile device 200 shown in FIG. 17B) over a short-range data link suchas a short-range wireless connection. In such case, the operation of theelectronic device 400, including the configuration of the electronicdevice 400 to instruct the external device to transmit the wirelesssignal, may be controlled by a software application installed on theexternal device such as a smart phone app. The app may have auser-friendly graphical user interface for configuring the pairedelectronic device 400. The app may communicate with other applicationsto leverage other data and settings stored on the smart phone. Forexample, in accordance with a user's configuration selections, theelectronic device 400 may, in the event of a detected fall, instruct thewireless transmitter of the smart phone to transmit the wireless signalto one or more contacts on a list of contacts stored in the smart phone,such as an address book or designated list of emergency contacts.

It is also contemplated that either the electronic device 400 itself ora paired external device with the installed app may have some or all ofthe additional structure and functionality described herein. This mayinclude, for example, the described display 270, lights 280, and/orspeaker 290 and functionality to initiate a fall alarm using one or moresuch output devices (see FIG. 17B), the manual control 110 c forinitiating controlled descent, e.g. a touchscreen, button, switch,motion sensor such as a proximity sensor, camera, etc. of the electronicdevice 400 or paired external device (see FIGS. 17A and 17B), etc. Thesuspended user may, for example, be able to initiate controlled descentat the touch of a button on the electronic device 400 or paired externaldevice without needing to reach above his/her head to a housing 128disposed on the retractable line 116.

The electronic device 400 or paired external device may further havereal-time location tracking functionality in order to allow emergencyresponse personnel to quickly locate the suspended user. To this end,the electronic device 400 or paired external device may include a globalpositioning system (GPS) as noted above. In response to a detected fall,the processor 220 of the electronic device 400 may instruct the wirelesstransmitter to transmit location data associated with the detection,such as GPS data of the electronic device 400 at the time that the fallwas detected or GPS data of the paired external device at the time thatthe fall was detected.

Additional functionality of the electronic device 400 and/or pairedexternal device may include the ability on the part of the user to stopa prematurely or accidentally generated signal to emergency responsepersonnel. For example, the user may have only fallen a short distanceand may be able to rescue himself without assistance. In this regard,the processor 220 may, in response to the detection that the user hasfallen, initiate a countdown during which the user may prevent theelectronic device 400 from instructing the wireless transmitter totransmit the wireless signal. During the countdown, the user mayinterrupt the transmission of the wireless signal, for example, byinteracting with a touchscreen, button, switch, motion sensor such as aproximity sensor, camera, etc. of the electronic device 400 and/orpaired external device.

The electronic device 400 may be disposable on the harness 13 as shown,for example, in FIGS. 20, 21A, and 21B. FIG. 20 is a closeup view of theharness 13 of the self-retracting lanyard system, showing a pocket 300 aformed integrally with the harness 13. The pocket 300 a may, forexample, be built into the fabric of the harness 13 and may be sized toaccommodate the electronic device 400. For example, the electronicdevice 400 may be around 25×40×8 mm and the pocket 300 may be slightlylarger (e.g. around 28×43×11 mm) so that the electronic device 400 fitseasily but snugly in the pocket 300 a. The pocket 300 a may include aflap 310 that may be closed to protect the electronic device 400 (e.g.from dust) and opened to remove the electronic device 400 from thepocket 300 a. As noted above, the harness 13 may have a low price pointand may be considered a “consumable,” to be replaced as the fabricbecomes worn due to frequent contact with the user's body. By providingthe pocket 300 a for insertion and removal of the electronic device 400,it is possible to use the same electronic device 400 with multipleharnesses 300 a, allowing the electronic device 400 to be reused fromuser to user or as harnesses 300 a become worn. In this way, theemergency response communication functionality described herein may beefficiently implemented without unduly multiplying the cost of theelectronic devices 400.

FIGS. 21A and 21B are alternative closeup views of the harness 13 of theself-retracting lanyard system, showing a pocket 300 b instead of thepocket 300 a. Whereas the pocket 300 a is formed integrally with theharness 13, the pocket 300 b is a separate piece that may be removablyfixed to the harness 13. To this end, the pocket 300 b may have one ormore fasteners 322, 324 such as hook-and-loop fasteners (e.g. Velcro)formed on one or more arms 320 of the pocket 300 b as shown in FIG. 21A.The pocket 300 b may be fixed to the harness 13 by wrapping the one ormore arms 320 around a strap of the harness 13 as shown in FIG. 21B,with one of the fasteners 322 (e.g. hooks) mating with another of thefasteners 324 (loops) to hold the pocket 300 b in place. Any of variousfastening mechanisms may be used as the one or more fasteners 322, 324,for example, hook-and-loop fasteners, a threaded stud, a tie, adhesive,etc., as well as any of various fastening arrangements, for example, twoarms 320 that wrap around the harness 13, a single arm 320 that wrapsaround the harness, armless arrangements that puncture through, clampto, or adhere to the harness 13, etc. Because the pocket 300 b may beremovably fixed to the harness 13, it may be used to retrofit aconventional harness 13.

For ease of explanation, the self-retracting lanyard system includingthe electronic device 400 is described as a modification of theembodiment shown in FIGS. 1-7 and is thus depicted in FIG. 19 asincluding the alarm device 10. However, the disclosure is not intendedto be so limited. The self-retracting lanyard system including theelectronic device 400 may instead be a modification of any of theembodiments shown in FIGS. 8-18, including controlled descentfunctionality, or may be a modification of a conventionalself-retracting lanyard system having neither alarm functionality norcontrolled descent functionality.

The memories 60, 160, 240 described herein may function asnon-transitory program storage media on which are stored instructionsexecutable by a processor or programmable circuit to perform the variousoperations described above. In this regard, the processors 50, 150, 220described herein are examples of a processor or programmable circuitthat executes such stored instructions. The various wirelesstransmitters and receivers described herein are not intended to belimited to devices with exclusive transmission or receptionfunctionality and may also refer to transceivers.

Additional functionality of the various self-retracting lanyardsdescribed above may include, e.g. a regenerative electrical systememployed to recharge a battery when the retractable line moves up ordown, photovoltaic cells to maintain the battery and increase its life,and a low battery indicator and “test” function with visual and/oraudible alerts. Further additional functionality may include, forexample, a “tag out” lock preventing the system from being used after afall pending inspection and recertification, self-diagnosis and “servicedue” indicators, and automatic transmission of a fall event to arecording device and/or to emergency personnel. An accelerometer(dedicated or a component of a mobile device) may be used to determineif a fall has occurred.

FIGS. 22A and 22B are schematic views of a self-retracting lanyard 112 eaccording to another embodiment of the innovations described herein. Theself-retracting lanyard 112 e may be substantially the same as any ofthe self-retracting lanyards 112, 112 a, 112 b, 112 c, 112 d describedabove and is illustrated as a modified version of the self-retractinglanyard 112 (FIG. 11A) by way of example only. The self-retractinglanyard 112 e differs from the self-retracting lanyards 112, 112 a, 112b, 112 c, 112 in the inclusion of a solar charging system comprising oneor more solar panels 188 (e.g. photovoltaic cells) and a charger 190 forcharging the battery or other power supply element 156 within the manualcontrol housing 128 using energy generated by the solar panel(s) 188.The solar panel(s) 188 may be disposed on the main body 114 of theself-retracting lanyard 112 e, preferably in an upper region thereof soas to receive direct sunlight and/or other man-made light sources foruse indoors. The charger 190, which may be an induction charger or aconventional charger with electrical contacts, may be positioned at thebottom of the main body 114 where the retractable line 116 enters themain body 114 as it retracts. In the example of FIGS. 22A and 22B, thecharger 190 is positioned at the bottom of a shock-absorbing coil thatabsorbs the impact of the manual control housing 128 or other hardwareas the retractable line 116 retracts. In addition to the solar panels188 themselves, the main body 114 may house circuitry associated withthe solar panels 188, such as a charger battery or capacitor for storingthe generated energy if not provided within the charger 190 itself. Awire 192 may be provided to electrically connect the charger 190 to themain body 114 if necessary, depending on the structure of the charger190. The charger 190 may, for example, extend directly from the mainbody 114 without a connecting wire 192.

When the self-retracting lanyard 112 e is in use, the retractable line116 is generally pulled out of the main body 114 as shown in FIG. 22A,such that the manual control housing 128 is not docked with the charger190. When the self-retracting lanyard 112 e is no longer in use, theretractable line 116 may be retracted completely to a “home position,”causing the manual control housing 128 to dock with the charger 190.When docked, the manual control housing 128 may be in close enoughproximity to allow induction charging of the battery 156 (see FIGS. 12and 14) by the charger 190. In the case of conventional charging,docking may establish electrical contact between electrical contacts onthe charger 190 and the outside of the manual control housing 128 forcharging the battery 156. In this way, as long as the retractable line116 is retracted while the self-retracting lanyard 112 e is not in use,the battery 156 of the manual control housing 128 may be charged by thesolar panel(s) 188 and charger 190 during this time (e.g. by tricklecharging), helping to ensure that the manual control 110 and otherfunctionality is always at full battery when a worker begins a shiftusing the self-retracting lanyard 112 e. Alternatively or additionallyto rechargeable cartridge style batteries (e.g. lithium ion), the manualcontrol housing 128 may in some cases use commonly availablerechargeable or non-rechargeable batteries such as nickel cadmiumbatteries.

The particulars shown herein are by way of example only for purposes ofillustrative discussion, and are not presented in the cause of providingwhat is believed to be most useful and readily understood description ofthe principles and conceptual aspects of the various embodiments of thepresent disclosure. In this regard, no attempt is made to show any moredetail than is necessary for a fundamental understanding of thedifferent features of the various embodiments, the description takenwith the drawings making apparent to those skilled in the art how thesemay be implemented in practice.

What is claimed is:
 1. A self-retracting lanyard comprising: a mainbody; a retractable line coupled to the main body so as to be extendibleand retractable relative to the main body and to be restricted fromextending relative to the main body in response to a user of theself-retracting lanyard falling; a housing adapted to be engageable withthe retractable line; and a manual control disposed on the housing andoperable by the user to initiate controlled descent of the retractableline relative to the main body.
 2. The self-retracting lanyard of claim1, further comprising: a fluid supply disposed in the housing; and ahose extending from the housing to the main body, wherein the main bodyincludes an actuator arranged to actuate a controlled descent switchthat initiates the controlled descent, the manual control is operable bythe user to deliver a fluid from the fluid supply to the actuator viathe hose, and the actuator is configured to actuate the controlleddescent switch in response to receiving the fluid.
 3. Theself-retracting lanyard of claim 2, wherein the fluid supply comprises acompressed gas cannister.
 4. The self-retracting lanyard of claim 3,wherein the compressed gas cannister is a carbon dioxide canister. 5.The self-retracting lanyard of claim 2, wherein the hose coils aroundthe retractable line so as to extend or retract in conjunction with theretractable line.
 6. The self-retracting lanyard of claim 2, wherein themanual control includes a lever, switch, button, or motion sensor on thehousing.
 7. The self-retracting lanyard of claim 1, further comprising:a battery disposed in the housing; a solar panel disposed on the mainbody; and a charger disposed on the main body at a position where theretractable line enters the main body as it retracts, wherein thehousing is configured to dock with the charger when the retractable lineretracts such that the battery is charged by the charger using energygenerated by the solar panel.
 8. The self-retracting lanyard of claim 7,wherein the charger is configured to charge the battery by inductioncharging.
 9. The self-retracting lanyard of claim 7, wherein the chargeris configured to establish electrical contact with the housing.
 10. Theself-retracting lanyard of claim 7, wherein the charger is configured tocharge the battery by trickle charging.
 11. The self-retracting lanyardof claim 7, wherein the battery is a lithium ion battery.
 12. Theself-retracting lanyard of claim 7, wherein the battery is a nickelcadmium battery.
 13. The self-retracting lanyard of claim 7, wherein themain body includes an actuator arranged to actuate a controlled descentswitch that initiates the controlled descent, the manual control isoperable by the user to generate an electric signal on a signal pathextending from the housing to the main body, the generation of theelectric signal being powered by the battery, and the actuator isconfigured to actuate the controlled descent switch in response to theelectric signal.
 14. The self-retracting lanyard of claim 13, whereinthe signal path includes a wire in the retractable line.
 15. Theself-retracting lanyard of claim 13, wherein the manual control includesa lever, switch, button, or motion sensor on the housing.
 16. Theself-retracting lanyard of claim 7, wherein the main body includes anactuator arranged to actuate a controlled descent switch that initiatesthe controlled descent, the actuator including a wireless receiver, themanual control is operable by the user to transmit a wireless controlleddescent initiation command, the transmission of the wireless controlleddescent initiation command being powered by the battery, and theactuator is configured to actuate the controlled descent switch inresponse to receipt of the wireless controlled descent initiation signalby the wireless receiver.
 17. The self-retracting lanyard of claim 16,wherein the manual control includes a lever, switch, button, or motionsensor on the housing.
 18. A method comprising: providing aself-retracting lanyard including a main body and a retractable linecoupled to the main body so as to be extendible and retractable relativeto the main body and to be restricted from extending relative to themain body in response to a user of the self-retracting lanyard falling;attaching the retractable line to a user of the self-retracting lanyard;engaging a housing with the retractable line; and initiating acontrolled descent of the retractable line relative to the main body inresponse to operation by the user of a manual control disposed on thehousing.
 19. The method of claim 18, further comprising: providing asolar panel and a charger on the main body; and docking the housing withthe charger such that the battery is charged by the charger using energygenerated by the solar panel.
 20. A self-retracting lanyard comprising:a main body; a retractable line coupled to the main body so as to beextendible and retractable relative to the main body and to berestricted from extending relative to the main body in response to auser of the self-retracting lanyard falling; a manual control operableby the user to initiate controlled descent of the retractable linerelative to the main body; and a solar powered charger disposed on themain body and configured to charge the manual control when theretractable line is retracted.